Painters, painters, craftsmen

What does a painter and lacquerer do in craftsmanship? – Tasks and working environment

A painter or lacquerer in the craft sector mainly works with preparing, treating, and painting surfaces on buildings, vehicles, industrial parts, or various interior objects. The work often involves sanding, filling, priming, and applying different types of paints and varnishes to achieve the desired result and protection against wear. The working environment can vary between workshops, construction sites, and industrial settings where both physical effort and precision are required. Protective equipment is common as the work can involve exposure to dust, solvents, and other chemicals. The work is often performed in teams, but independent tasks are also common.

Wage development over time

Over the past three years, wages for painters and lacquerers in craftsmanship have shown some variation. In 2022, the average salary was 32,600 SEK per month, which then slightly decreased to 31 800 SEK the following year. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a clear increase, with the current average at 33 400 SEK, corresponding to a growth of about 5% compared to the previous year. This trend can partly be explained by increased demand for skilled labor in the sector and adjustments for inflation. Despite some fluctuations, the overall trend is upward, especially for those with specialized skills or longer experience. Market demand and education levels also influence salary formation in the profession.

Painter and lacquerer – comprehensive salary overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,700 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 35,600 SEK/month (male, private sector employee)
• Hourly wage (average): 201 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 94% of what men do (men: 33 700 SEK, women: 31,700 SEK)
• Regional differences: Limited data – variations may occur depending on location and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a painter or lacquerer in craftsmanship, a high school education with a focus on construction and painting, with specialization in painting or industrial coating, is usually required. Practical experience is highly valuable, and many employers also require certifications or completion of industry-specific courses. Opportunities for further education and specialization exist within the profession, especially for those interested in advanced coating techniques or leadership roles.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program, painting specialization (3 years)
• Certifications: Vocational certificates or industry-specific courses
• Practical training: Apprenticeship or internship often included
• Prerequisites: Basic education, sometimes B driving license
• Further education opportunities: Specialization in, for example, industrial coating or decorative painting

Common benefits and compensations

Within the profession, it is common to receive benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, protective equipment, and sometimes bonuses for larger projects. Some employers offer opportunities for skills development, further training, and flexible working hours. Pension schemes and insurance are often included in employment conditions, especially with larger companies or collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

Competition within the profession varies depending on region and economic conditions, but there is generally a steady demand for painters and lacquerers in the craft sector. Physically demanding environments and exposure to chemicals require high standards of occupational safety and precision. A challenge is the technological development, where new materials and methods are constantly introduced, requiring ongoing skills development. To stand out in the job market, having specialized skills, such as in decorative painting or advanced coating, is advantageous. Job availability is also influenced by the construction cycle and demand for renovation and new construction.

Tips for those wanting to become a painter or lacquerer

To succeed as a painter or lacquerer in craftsmanship, it is good to be meticulous and have a good eye for details, as small mistakes can significantly affect the final result. Flexibility is a valuable trait, as tasks often vary between projects and environments. Being resilient and in good physical condition makes the work easier, as it can be both demanding and repetitive. Teamwork skills are also important since many assignments are performed in teams requiring effective communication. Lastly, curiosity about new techniques and materials is beneficial, as developments in paints and coatings are ongoing and open new opportunities.

Key facts about painters and lacquerers

• Education level: High school education, often with practical training
• Work environment: Workshop, construction site, or industrial setting
• Employment type: Usually full-time employment, sometimes hourly-based
• Demand: 1437 available jobs within the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Color and material knowledge, surface treatment, safety procedures

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a painter or lacquerer can advance to more specialized roles, such as supervisor, project manager, or specialist in decorative or industrial coating. There are also opportunities to start your own business or further educate yourself in related fields. According to the Swedish Employment Service's forecasts, there is no precise assessment for the profession due to limited data, but the broad occupational group has over 1437 available jobs registered in Sweden. Future prospects are influenced by developments in the construction and industrial sectors, as well as technological innovations and environmental requirements.

Common questions about painters, lacquerers, and craftsmanship

• What does a painter or lacquerer earn per month?
  - The average salary is 33 400 SEK per month.
• Are there differences between men's and women's wages in the profession?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 94% of what men do on average.
• What education is required to become a painter or lacquerer?
  - High school education with a focus on painting or coating, along with an apprenticeship period.
• What are the future prospects in the profession?
  - Prognoses are limited due to scarce data, but there are over 1400 available jobs within the trade.
• What are the most common work environments?
  - Workshops, construction sites, and industrial environments dominate.
• Is further education available?
  - Yes, specialization in areas such as decorative painting or industrial coating is possible.
• What is the highest and lowest salary in the profession?
  - Highest salary is 35,600 SEK per month (male), lowest is 31,700 SEK per month (female).